Italian Post China Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Italian Post Offices in China Stamps
Italian Post China refers to the postal services operated by the Kingdom of Italy within the concessions it held in China, primarily in Tianjin and Shanghai, during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This operation was a manifestation of European imperial influence in East Asia, distinct from the broader Italian colonial efforts in Africa. Stamps issued for these offices typically featured Italian denominations and were bilingual, often showing Italian and Chinese characters. The postal administration ceased following the Treaty of Versailles and subsequent international agreements that dissolved the Italian concessions after World War I.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- East Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1917 – 1918
- Languages:
- Italian, Chinese
- Currency:
- ITL
- Parent issuer:
- Italy
Stamp Catalogs
Italian Post Offices in China stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Italian Post Offices in China Stamp Series
Overprinted Italian Stamps (1917-1918)
Italian stamps (primarily from the 'Lion of St. Mark' and 'Garibaldi' series) overprinted with 'PECHINO' or 'TIENTSIN' and new values in Chinese currency (cents and dollars).
Provisional Issues (1917)
Emergency issues created by surcharging existing Italian stamps with new values, often due to currency fluctuations or shortages.
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Italian Post Offices in China Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Values vary significantly based on the base stamp, overprint, condition, and specific office (Pechino/Beijing or Tientsin/Tianjin). Errors and rare surcharges command higher prices.
How to Identify Italian Post Offices in China Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Italian Post Offices in China stamps:
- 1 Look for Italian stamps with overprints 'PECHINO' or 'TIENTSIN' (or 'TIENTSIN' with 'Pechino' crossed out) and new values in Chinese currency.
- 2 Examine the base stamp design, which will typically be Italian definitive issues from the early 20th century.
- 3 Check for bilingual inscriptions, often with Italian and Chinese characters for the value.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Italian Post China stamps?
Italian Post China stamps were issued by the Kingdom of Italy for use in its postal offices within the Italian concessions in China, primarily in Tianjin and Shanghai (though stamps are generally marked Pechino/Beijing or Tientsin/Tianjin). These stamps were Italian issues overprinted with local currency denominations and place names, reflecting Italy's imperial presence in East Asia during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Are Italian Post China stamps valuable?
The value of Italian Post China stamps varies widely. Common issues can be found for a few euros, while rare overprints, provisional issues, or stamps with errors can fetch hundreds or even thousands of euros. Factors like condition, specific overprint, and the base stamp series significantly influence their market value.
How can I identify Italian Post China stamps?
To identify Italian Post China stamps, look for Italian definitive stamps (such as the 'Lion of St. Mark' or 'Garibaldi' series) that bear overprints like 'PECHINO' or 'TIENTSIN' along with new values in Chinese currency (e.g., 'C. 10' for 10 Cents). Many also feature bilingual text. For precise identification and valuation, consider using a stamp identifier app or consulting specialized philatelic catalogs.
Which catalogs list Italian Post China stamps?
Italian Post China stamps are listed in all major international stamp catalogs, including Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated market values, essential for collectors of these fascinating colonial issues.
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